Affordability and traffic dominate North Vancouver-Capilano byelection

North Vancouver-Capilano voters go to the polls Monday in a federal byelection shaped by housing affordability and traffic concerns. Six candidates are seeking the seat, including Liberal Braeden Caley and Conservative Stephen Curran.

The vacancy was created when Johnathan Wilkinson was appointed Canada's ambassador to the European Union earlier this year.

Housing costs remain a central concern. Rentals.ca's latest National Rent Report listed North Vancouver as Canada's most expensive rental market, with average asking rents above $3,000 and one-bedroom apartments renting for just over $2,500.

Transportation is another major issue. A 2023 survey found that 74 per cent of trips in North Vancouver were made by car. Jonathan Mosley, CEO of the North Van Chamber of Commerce, said congestion on the two North Shore bridges is affecting both residents and the local economy.

Mosley said about half of North Shore employees commute from elsewhere in the Lower Mainland, making improved transportation infrastructure a priority. He said the chamber wants the next MP to be active locally and responsive to affordability, transportation and international-trade concerns amid continuing tariff threats from the United States.